Retired Sheriff S. Stephen “Steve” Bittle, age 78, of Falls Church, Virginia, passed away Thursday, December 17, 2020. Steve began his law enforcement career on August 15, 1966 with the City of Falls Church Police Department, lasting 27 years and earning him the rank of Sergeant. In 1992, he was appointed Sheriff of the City of Falls Church by the Circuit Court, and in 1993 he was elected Sheriff. He ran six additional successful campaigns. In February 2017, the Virginia House of Delegates honored him for 50 years of service. On August 15, 2020, he retired after 27 years as Sheriff. His 54 years of service to the city earned him the title of the longest serving employee in City of Falls Church history. Preceded in death by his son, Stephen Scott Bittle; he is survived by his wife of 28 years, Kathleen Bittle; daughter Susan Brassfield; step children Julianna Ramirez, Oscar Roa and Rebecca Roa; nine grandchildren and his sister Kathleen Landrith. A grave side service will be held on Monday, January 4, 2021 at Oakwood Cemetery, 401 N. Roosevelt St., Falls Church, VA 22046. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.adventfuneral.com.